FERRIDAY — A local man is challenging the 12-year incumbent for constable in District 1.

The constable serves a six-year term, and his or her job is to act as the enforcement arm of their district justice court, over which the justice of the peace presides.

Some of the duties of the constable include serving citations handed down by the justice court, and enforcing rulings of the court such as evictions and garnishments.

Rosa W. Elaine has served in the position for the past two terms, and she said she loves the job.

“I haven’t had any complications with anybody, anywhere, any how,” she said. “I feel like if you got a person and talk to them all right, then that is all that it requires.”

Challenger “Charlie” Quimby said he decided to run for the position to better represent his area of the district.

“I feel like I can do a better job,” he said.

Elaine said that the 30 years she worked in the school system have helped qualify her for the job.

“I know how to talk to people, and I feel that would make me a good constable,” she said. “I sit down and talk to them, and we come to an understanding, and that is it.”

Likewise, Quimby said his life experience qualifies him. He worked for 16 years in public service, was self-employed, the president of the Lake St. John Gas Company and is a Vietnam veteran.

“I feel I am better educated and have more job experience,” Quimby said. “I feel like I am more qualified and have more enthusiasm for the job, and I think I could better serve the business as well as the public sector of our district. I know them all.”

Early voting for the Oct. 4 election is ongoing at the Concordia Parish registrar of voters’ office from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. through Saturday.